Testing a Structural Model of Psychological Well-Being and Constraints Negotiation in Recreational Sports Participation in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

The relationships among psychological well-being, constraints, negotiation, and participation were examined using structural equation modeling in patients with type 2 diabetes using a cross-sectional survey approach (N = 283). Despite a direct negative effect of constraints and a positive effect of negotiation on participation in recreational sports, we found no significant effect of constraints on the negotiation efforts of respondents. Instead, psychological well-being played an important role in the process. A higher level of psychological well-being not only directly decreases participation, but also indirectly increases participation by reducing constraints and promoting negotiation efforts. In particular, environmental mastery and personal growth indirectly increase participation by mitigating constraints; personal growth and positive relationships stimulate participation by boosting negotiation efforts and diminishing the discouraging impact of constraints on negotiation. However, a stronger purpose in life decreases both negotiation and participation.

Keywords:

• elderly
• physical activity
• type 2 diabetes